Page 63 of Tempting Her Dragons

“It’s natural,” Heath says. “They are protective.”

“He’s my friend,” I say, looking at King and then Mav. “He helps me.”

“Helps you?” King asks.

I go on after Heath gives me a slight nod. “The man I killed the other night was someone Heath told me about. Sometimes, he supplies me with information.” I would have told them after speaking with Heath. I didn’t want to reveal a part of his life if he didn’t want me to.

“He’s your contact,” Mav says slowly.

“He’s one,” I say and bite my lip. I have to talk to my other contact. “I didn’t want to say anything yet without talking to him.”

“I hear about a lot of abusive men.” Heath leans against the closed door. “I spent some time speaking to Saphira recently, and she confided in me about her activities. I needed someone I could trust to take care of problems.”

“Why can’t you take care of them?” King asks.

“I have a business that takes up much of my time,” he says. “I have to have complete control over my animal. The men I send to Saphira would test that control.” I narrow my eyes as a silent message travels between them.

“You know what his animal is,” I accuse my mates.

“We do,” King says.

“It’s nice to not be asked for a change,” Heath grumbles.

“Why can’t I know?” I ask, hurt.

“I don’t want them to tell you,” Heath says, lowering his gaze. I study his body language. His hand is white on his cane, and his shoulders are tense. I’ve never seen him so unsure.

“Why?” I ask softly, and he looks up.

“I’m not ready,” he says, but he’s lying. A part of him may not be, but I think the real reason is he is afraid of scaring me. I look into his eyes for a moment.

“I’ll listen when you are,” I promise, and his body relaxes.

“Thank you.” He clears his throat. “I hear there is trouble.”

“Nothing we can’t handle,” Mav says.

“How did you hear?” King asks, his eyes narrowing. I assume Sally said something after Roxanne shared during their slumber party together. Sally is a big fan of Heath’s, and I know they speak regularly.

“I want to offer my assistance,” Heath says, glossing over the question. “Just in case you need it.”

“We—”

“Thank you,” I interrupt King, widening my eyes at him. “We appreciate the offer.”

“Of course.” Heath nods.

“Have you eaten?” I ask.

“I haven’t,” he says, grinning.

“I can make more if there is only enough for three,” I offer, looking between my mates.

“We made plenty,” King says.

“Great,” I say. “Should we eat?” I ask, touching King’s arm, and his face softens.

“Of course, Firefly,” he says. “Heath, join us.” I squeeze his arm.

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